When thinking about what I wanted to write this week, I thought about several topics that would be relevant but none hit me as much as thinking about the volunteers that I have seen throughout this year and past. Until I got into this business and started working behind the scenes, I had really never given it much thought as to the time and effort that goes into a race production.
Most runners signup for an event and then show up to race. Once it's over they might take a medal home or not but for them the race is over. For those people that are behind the scenes, the work begins months before the day and may continue for a few days even after the event. They are certainly the first on the scene and the last to leave. There are so many people that make all of this happen. You have the people behind the charity that it benefits and their tireless devotion to their cause. You have people who really feel compelled to assist the charity and help wherever they can. There are countless hours that are expended planning the event, soliciting donations, stuffing packets, helping with all race preparations, assisting with registration, the list goes on and on. They work tirelessly throughout the year for an event that lasts no more than two or three hours.
For most of the people that are involved they get nothing more out of the event than a simple thank you and maybe a tshirt if there are any left over. The majority of you treat the volunteers with the utmost respect and keep it all in perspective. Unfortunately, sometimes the volunteers and other staff also take a lot of abuse from a few people when things don't quite meet perceived expectations. Imagine trying to put together an event with so many moving parts and having it all work flawlessly. The volunteers do their best to pull that off but even the best run races can have issues which you may not even be aware. The volunteers are always gracious with a smile and just do what is necessary to resolve any issues make the event a success.
I have always thought that every runner should volunteer their time at an event somewhere just so that they know what goes on behind the scenes and can appreciate how much work and effort goes into the production. I'm always in awe of those that are willing to give up their day or weekend to help out. To them I give thanks and kudos for their help and dedication. Without the volunteers none of this would be possible. Next time you run a race, please remember the people that are behind the effort and give them your thanks for all that they do. And if something isn't to your satisfaction, please be courteous and kindly work with them to sort it out. For most events, it's all about the charity and the cause it supports. We need the volunteers to make it all work. If you want to volunteer and don't know who to contact, just drop us a line and we'll put you in touch with the director. I've never known a race to turn down extra help. I know that they would appreciate any help given.
